Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) may provide health advantages like easing coughs and colds, soothing irritated skin, reducing pain, and more. Still, additional research is needed to confirm these effects.
Overall, marshmallow root is usually considered safe. However, you should consult a healthcare provider before using this herb. It should not take the place of any prescribed medical treatment.
Marshmallow root is a perennial plant native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. For millennia, it has been used in traditional medicine to address digestive, respiratory, and dermatological issues.
Some of its therapeutic properties are attributed to the mucilage it contains. People commonly take it as capsules, tinctures, or teas.
Always check with a physician prior to using marshmallow root in any form to make sure it’s appropriate and safe for your particular condition or symptoms. A subset of people may have allergies to marshmallow root.
Continue reading to learn more about the possible health benefits associated with marshmallow root.
1. It may help with coughs and colds
The substantial mucilaginous content of marshmallow root may make it useful for addressing coughs and cold symptoms.
Marshmallow root seems to act in ways that loosen mucus and inhibit bacteria.
A 2018 trial evaluated marshmallow root extract delivered in lozenge or syrup form for dry cough. It reported that these preparations typically reduced irritation, often within about 10 minutes.
Learn more about home remedies for a dry cough.
2. It may ease skin irritation
The anti-inflammatory characteristics of marshmallow root may help reduce skin irritation from conditions such as furunculosis and eczema.
A 2013 review reported that an ointment with 20% marshmallow root extract decreased skin irritation. Authors suggested the herb activates cells that exert anti-inflammatory effects.
When used by itself, the extract was a bit less effective than an ointment containing a synthetic anti-inflammatory drug. However, a formulation combining both showed greater anti-inflammatory activity than either ingredient alone.
Further studies are required to validate and expand on these findings.
3. It may aid wound healing
Marshmallow root has demonstrated antibacterial effects that could be beneficial for wound healing.
A 2015 animal study indicated that marshmallow root extract may be effective against gram-positive bacteria. When applied topically to rat wounds, the extract notably improved healing compared with antibiotic controls.
This suggests it might accelerate recovery and reduce inflammation, but additional research is necessary to confirm these results.
Learn about foods that may support healing.
4. It may enhance skin health overall
Marshmallow root might be used to support the condition of skin exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Although in vitro research from 2016 suggests marshmallow root reduced UV-induced DNA damage in cultured skin cells, there is currently no direct evidence showing it would be useful as part of a regular skincare regimen.
Learn about skin care routines.
5. It may serve as a pain reliever
A 2014 paper cites studies indicating marshmallow root can have analgesic effects to lessen pain.
Nevertheless, more comprehensive research is needed.
Learn more about natural pain-relief options.
6. It may function as a diuretic
Marshmallow root may act as a diuretic. Diuretics help the body eliminate excess fluid, which can support kidney and bladder cleansing.
Further investigation is necessary to clarify marshmallow root’s benefits for urinary health.
7. It may aid in treating gastric ulcers
2011 research reported that marshmallow flower extract showed promise in treating gastric ulcers in rats.
However, additional studies are required to build on these findings.
More research is needed to expand upon these results.
9. It may act as an antioxidant
Marshmallow root exhibits antioxidant activity that could protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
A 2004 study found marshmallow root extract to be comparable to standard antioxidants, demonstrating notable total antioxidant capacity, though more research is warranted.
Learn about foods rich in antioxidants.
10. It may support cardiovascular health
Researchers are exploring marshmallow flower extract for potential roles in treating certain heart-related conditions.
A 2011 animal study assessed liquid marshmallow flower extract for effects on lipemia, platelet aggregation, and inflammation—factors that can be associated with cardiovascular disease.
Investigators observed that a month of flower extract intake positively influenced HDL cholesterol, which may support heart health. Still, more studies are necessary.
Learn more about strategies to boost heart health.
Possible side effects and precautions
Some individuals may have allergic reactions to marshmallow root.
Topical application of marshmallow root could cause skin irritation in certain people.
Discuss marshmallow root use with your doctor so they can assess safety and any possible interactions with medications you take.
Marshmallow root might be unsafe for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
The bottom line
While more investigation is required to fully establish marshmallow root’s health benefits, existing evidence suggests it may help with coughs and colds, ease skin irritation, and support wound healing.
Marshmallow root may also have potential to improve skin condition, act as a diuretic, provide antioxidant effects, and relieve pain.
Although generally regarded as safe, consult your healthcare provider before using marshmallow root. It is not intended to replace any doctor-recommended treatment plan.
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